When an old cedar-shingled saltbox was scheduled for demolition in the 1960s, the current owner’s parents had it moved to their six-acre property in East Hampton where they use it as a guest house. Part of the home dates from 1716, and it has remained in the same family for more than five decades. In the late 1990s, architect Kathrine McCoy was commissioned to design a Georgian-style primary residence for the family, and also to update the guesthouse into something more substantial for her client’s family and friends. Two new wings were added around the original structure creating a U-shaped home with the Colonial-era structure in the center. “We wanted to keep the integrity of the older house, which was so loved by the family, but make it work for a new generation,” McCoy told Cottages & Gardens. New York-based decorator Ingrid Ongaro was commissioned to bring fresh life into the home with a mix of modern and Colonial elements. Let’s take a tour with images from Cottages & Gardens and Katherine McCoy’s portfolio!

Low key but very elegant.
Thanks for the tour. I always enjoy seeing very old homes updated for the 21st C living.
The historical artwork and furnishings of the Early American period have me longing for a comeback of that style of decorating. In 1976 Americana and Early American was featured and could be found everywhere, in homes, restaurants, stores, magazines. hotels and even in clothing and accessories. Bennington Pine Pennsylvania House, Stickley, and so many others embraced that time period so well. Maybe our country needs a refresher in this decor to remind of out beautiful past. If I were a young designer that’s where my focus would be! I think there is a market for ir hiding out there.
This is the perfect blend of old and new. Beautifully done. So happy they didn’t delete the home’s history.
These people have impeccable taste. Not overdone and extremely inviting!
This is my idea of a perfect country retreat. Simply but beautifully appointed rooms that say come in, be comfortable and relax. There is nothing too ostentatious or precious. Everything is timeless and restrained. These rooms will look beautiful for years.